A new half-Olympic-size swimming pool is under construction in Thika, with the goal of turning Kiambu County into a major hub for aquatic sports. The project, part of a larger upgrade to Thika Stadium, is a significant investment for the region’s athletic future.
Hailed as a landmark investment, the ambitious project championed by Governor Kimani Wamatangi is expected to transform the region’s sporting, economic, and social fortunes.
Officials from Kenya Aquatics have since inspected the site and believe the new facility could be a game-changer for developing swimming talent in the country. The pool is designed to meet international standards, which will allow it to host national and even continental championships.
In a show of support for the new facility, George Munene, the Liaison Officer at Kenya Aquatics, praised the Kiambu county government for its vision. He noted that the project was crucial for local athletes who have long struggled to find adequate training facilities, often having to travel great distances to train in proper swimming facilities.
“If the facility meets the precise standards of the World Aquatics, it will become a prime venue for competitions at both local and national levels, a move that will not only serve our athletes but also benefit the economy by creating jobs through swimming events. A single continental event can pump up to Sh500 million into the local economy through logistics, tourism and hotels.
We are currently bidding to host the Africa Aquatic Masters Swimming Championship next year, and this new pool has already been identified as a strong contender for the sanctioned championships as long as it meets the required 25-metre length required by the World Aquatics Commission,” he stated.
Additionally, the pool is also expected to become a central venue for the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) swimming nationals, which will attract top young talent from across the country, further establishing Kiambu as a key hub for youth sports.
On his part, Osman Korar, the CEC for Youth Affairs and Sports, also emphasised the broader impact of the facility on the local community.
“It is not just about swimming but the creation of job opportunities for our youth, from pool attendants to maintenance staff, lifeguards, and coaches. When the facility is busy, our youth will be employed, our traders will have customers, and the entire town will thrive. The new facility will benefit a wide range of local businesses, from food vendors around the stadium and transport operators to hotels and guesthouses accommodating athletes and officials,” he explained.
With Thika on its way to city status, the project represents Kiambu County’s commitment to expanding its sporting reputation beyond traditional athletics and into new fields like swimming.
By Hellen Lunalo
